Seattle Train Accident Attorneys

Recover Damages for a Seattle Train Accident Under FELA

Train accidents often result in serious damages that devastate the lives of those involved. If you have been the victim of a train accident, chances are you are facing not only costly medical bills but also temporary or long-term disability and mental trauma. However, an experienced Washington personal injury lawyer can help you heal from your injuries, regain financial stability, and get the pieces of your life back together.

Located in Renton, the law office of Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. has provided high quality legal services to injured clients throughout the state of Washington for many years. We have the knowledge, skills, and experience to take on even the most difficult cases. Whether the party liable for your damages is an individual or a large company, please let us fight for your right to full and fair compensation. Call us today at (425) 228-3860 or (888) 228-3860 for a free consultation.

Providing Representation to Victims of Collisions and Derailment

In order to maximize your recovery, we will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your injuries to identify and establish any safety violations, reckless behaviors, and other acts of negligence that led to the incident. The common causes of train collisions and derailments include:

Inadequate signage or gates

Train conductor's failure to sound warning horns or use lights when approaching crossings

Objects protruding from the train

Crossings obstructed by objects

Badly constructed tracks

Objects on tracks

Defective equipment

Excessive cargo

It is highly advised that you do not give a statement to the train company, sign any documents, mention your accident on any social media site, or even talk about it with your friends or family, without speaking to a Seattle injury lawyer first.

The train company will take advantage of any mistake you make in order to discredit your claim and avoid paying you compensation. If you do not want to be left with your medical bills and other damages, consult with a trusted attorney as soon as possible.

Protecting the Rights of Washington Railway Employees

Although railroad employees are not protected by workers' compensation laws, the Federal Employer's Liability Act (FELA) grants them the right to sue for injuries caused by an employer's negligence. Under FELA, injured employees may recover for past and future medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and even pain and suffering. Compensation is awarded based on the legal principle of comparative fault, which dictates that a claimant's recovery is to be reduced by his or her percentage of fault, if any.

To prove a claim under FELA, the claimant must establish the following:

The injuries occurred as a result of working within the scope of employment with the train company.

The purpose of the claimant's employment was to further the business interests of the company.

The injury resulted from the negligence of the company.

To receive a comprehensive explanation of the complex laws that apply to railroad accidents, speak with an attorney who is familiar with such cases.

Causes of Railroad Crossing Collisions

According to the Federal Railroad Administration, there have been 1, 292 train crossing accidents and incidents throughout the United States. The primary causes of such catastrophic collisions are human error, track defects and equipment failure. Much like the trucking industry, railroad companies hire private investigators to quickly assess train crossing accidents and ensure that their railroad company is not held accountable for the devastating and expensive aftermath. Train companies will even go so far as to blame the victim.

Evidence of railroad company negligence includes:

Malfunctioning crossing gates, lights and alarms

Operational failure, such as braking improperly, speeding and distracted driving

Contact the skilled legal team at Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. as soon as possible to receive the aggressive representation you need when going up against a federal railroad company.

Let Us Handle Your Difficult Legal Matters for You

Taking on a legal claim may be the last thing on your mind, especially if you're dealing with physical injuries in Seattle. However, the future will be made substantially easier if you receive the financial assistance you need to cover your damages. To get started on the road to recovery, contact Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. at (425) 228-3860 or (888) 228-3860 today.

Washington Railroad Accident Lawyer Disclaimer: The legal information presented at this site should not be construed to be formal legal advice, nor the formation of a lawyer or attorney client relationship. Any results set forth herein are based upon the facts of that particular case and do not represent a promise or guarantee. Please contact a lawyer for a consultation on your particular legal matter. This web site is not intended to solicit clients for matters outside of the State of Washington.